NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore, Nick Hague, and Suni Williams — along with Roscosmos cosmonaut Aleksandr Gorbunov — are back on Earth after a science-packed stint aboard the International Space Station (ISS). Their SpaceX Crew-9 mission wrapped up with a smooth splashdown off the Florida coast on March 18, 2025. Now, they’re ready to unpack the stories, struggles, and successes from their journey.
Research That Reaches Beyond the Stars
The Crew-9 mission wasn’t just about keeping the ISS running smoothly — it was a science powerhouse. Over 900 hours were dedicated to experiments pushing the boundaries of what we know.
One of the standout projects explored how plants grow in microgravity. With food sustainability a growing concern on Earth, figuring out how to farm in space could be a game-changer for future long-duration missions — and maybe even for life back home. The astronauts monitored root behavior and leaf development, providing scientists with data that could help design more efficient crops on Earth.
Stem cell research also took center stage. The team tested how cells develop in the unique environment of microgravity. Early findings suggest that low-gravity conditions might accelerate certain cellular processes, potentially paving the way for breakthroughs in regenerative medicine and cancer treatments.
Plus, the team studied how materials degrade in space. From metal alloys to polymer coatings, they collected data that could inform everything from satellite design to spacecraft longevity.
Spacewalks, Microbes, and the Unexpected
It wasn’t all lab coats and data points. The Crew-9 astronauts also ventured outside the station for a high-stakes spacewalk. Their primary task? Maintenance and upgrades to ensure the ISS stays functional for future crews.
While outside, they also collected samples from the station’s exterior — part of a fascinating study on how resilient microorganisms are in space. Understanding which microbes survive, and why, could be crucial for both planetary protection and designing future spacecraft.
And, as space missions go, there were curveballs. Equipment malfunctions, tricky repairs, and the relentless pull of homesickness tested the team’s resilience. But they adapted, leaned on each other, and pushed through — a testament to their training and teamwork.
Postflight Insights and What’s Next
The mission doesn’t end with splashdown. Wilmore, Hague, and Williams will headline a live news conference on March 31, 2025, at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston. Starting at 2:30 p.m. EDT, they’ll break down their mission’s highlights and answer questions from the public and media.
Gorbunov won’t be joining, due to his travel schedule, but the other three astronauts will tackle topics ranging from scientific breakthroughs to the mental and physical toll of months in orbit.
After the conference, they’ll participate in a limited round of one-on-one interviews. For those wanting to tune in or ask questions, NASA’s inviting virtual and in-person attendees. Media reps have until March 28 to register, while the public can chime in on social media using #AskNASA.
As NASA eyes longer missions — and eventually Mars — the Crew-9 team’s work serves as a crucial step forward. Their efforts on the ISS are more than just progress for space exploration — they’re shaping science, medicine, and technology here on Earth, too.
